March 8, 2011

Mr. Meisner:

I am writing with regard to the proposed changes that would “legalize” the building of a tunnel to the airport on the Toronto Islands. It is absolutely incredible that the Toronto Port Authority (and by extension, Porter Airlines) would once again be asking for regulations to be changed to accommodate the building of a tunnel; a tunnel that would be built using public funds and only serving  a private company. The Toronto Port Authority has shown time and time again that it squanders public money – the Rochester Ferry boondoggle, the two ferries to access the airport. Now they say they have a business case that, to my knowledge, has not been circulated to any of the residents living in the vicinity of the airport. Whatever the business case, I am skeptical that it would pass muster to a close inspection on convincing everyone that it really is a sound financial decision.

This is simply a business decision, in my opinion – i.e. a request by Porter Airlines (I can just see their advertising campaign) and because many members of the current “Harper Government” fly by Porter, they want the convenience of a covered walkway to the airport. None of these people care about the environment – the bird sanctuary, the aquatic wildlife, the disruption and noise while the tunnel is being built, (not to mention the ongoing noise from Porter engine run-ups and pollution from the planes, but I digress) the traffic that will be present dropping people off so that they can trot across to catch a flight.  It’s just unbelievable to see the extent to which the TPA will go to prop up Porter Airlines because as we all know, if Porter Airlines goes out of business, the TPA will lose money  (i.e. the taxpayers)– such is the sweetheart deal that was made.

In conclusion, taxpayer’s money will be wasted for a minority group of people who care nothing about the environment and only care about their own convenience.  Taxpayers money would be better spent building a rail link to Pearson International Airport and not spent on this ridiculous tunnel. Please reject the request to legalize the building of the tunnel.